Keyless car thefts: new cars ranked 'poor' for their security systems

Car buyers need to ask the right questions when buying a new vehicle to prevent then becoming victims of keyless car theft, according to car security experts Thatcham Research.

The independent body has tested the security systems of seven new cars and ranked four of them inadequate - including the DS 3 Crossback, Mazda 3, Toyota RAV4 and Volvo S60.

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"Keyless entry/start systems are often optional or included with trim levels, so buyers need to understand that they could raise the theft risk profile of their new car by ticking that box," said Thatcham's chief technical officer, Richard Billyeald.

A car is stolen every five minutes in the UK - with many thieves exploiting a car's keyless entry system using kits bought online.

To operate, a criminal will stand near the car with the transmitter, while a second places the amplifier near the front door of the house. If the car’s fob is within a couple of metres, the amplifier will detect its signal and amplify it, sending it to the accomplice’s transmitter. This will allow them to open and start the car without the key.

Out of the four cars ranked as 'poor' by Thatcham, three of them would be given a 'good' rating without keyless entry and start systems. The Volvo S60, meanwhile, would be branded 'superior'.

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Some car manufacturers are introducing systems to combat keyless thefts, usually by using motion sensor enabled fobs. These will go into sleep mode if the fob hasn't moved for a short period, preventing criminals from extending their range using a relay kit.

As such, the BMW 7 Series, BMW X7 and Porsche 911 have been ranked as 'superior' by Thatcham.

Drivers concerned about their car being stolen are advised to use a signal-blocking Faraday pouch which will stop thieves being able to pick up a signal using relay devices.